History of BCIL

In the early 70's, BCIL was founded to "open doors" for persons with disabilities so that living independently could become a reality for many who had either been institutionalized or limited to their home environment. From a very humble beginning at the Boston University School of Theology in 1974, BCIL has become a leading force in the political and social fabric of our city and state, now serving over 5,000 people annually with direct services and needed information.

We continue to advocate for accessibility around the city as well as laws and regulations that improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Greater Boston and across Massachusetts. BCIL now provides the four “core services" of independent living centers: peer mentoring, skills training, information and referral, and advocacy. Read more about our Current Services.

BCIL Today

The Boston Center for Independent Living is a frontline civil rights organization led by people with disabilities that advocates to eliminate discrimination, isolation and segregation by providing advocacy, information and referral, peer support, skills training, and PCA services in order to enhance the independence of people with disabilities.